(Image: AFP via Getty Images)
Forecasters have issued a rare amber alert warning that Scotland could be hit by gusts of up to 80mph this weekend as Storm Boelo sweeps in.
Forecasters say that very strong westerly winds will develop on Saturday evening, with gusts of 60mph to 70mph expected across a wide area. Exposed coastal locations could see wind speeds reach up to 80mph.
The alert comes into force at 9pm on Saturday and lasts for 24 hours.
The strongest winds are forecast to initially affect the west of Scotland before spreading eastwards overnight and continuing through Sunday.
Heavy rain and frequent showers are also expected to accompany the storm, increasing the risk of disruption and difficult travel conditions.
The strongest winds will be felt at the coast (stock pic) (Image: Alamy Live News.)
It warns of potential danger to life from flying debris as well as a chance of damage to buildings, power cuts and travel disruption.
A yellow warning starts at midday on Saturday but at 6pm the amber alert comes into force, lasting until 9pm on Sunday, with only Orkney remaining under the yellow warning.
Read More:
- Scotland faces 80mph winds and heavy rain as Storm Boelo warning issued
- Train speed restrictions in place as Scotland braces for stormy weekend
- Shetland hit by flooding and landslide after heavy rainfall
The amber alert warns of potential injuries and danger to life from flying debris as well as damage to buildings and trees, travel disruption and power cuts.
The Met Office said: “Very strong westerly winds associated with Storm Boelo are expected with fairly widespread gusts of 60 to 70mph and gusts to 80mph in exposed coastal areas.
“The strongest winds will initially affect western Scotland and far north of Northern Ireland on Saturday evening and then spread eastwards overnight and through Sunday.”